A significant fire broke out at the historic De Varens Castle near the R4 in Merelbeke-Melle, drawing immediate response from the local fire brigade. The alarm was raised around 11 a.m., and by 2025-05-04 15:20:00, firefighters were still battling the blaze to bring it under control.
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The 19th-century castle, protected as a monument yet still inhabited and used for events, suffered extensive damage, especially to its roof. Despite the severity of the fire, no casualties or hazardous materials were reported, and the resident escaped unharmed. How will this impact the local heritage and community events hosted at De Varens?
With thick smoke visible from nearby highways and railway lines, the fire not only posed a threat to the historic building but also affected the surrounding area. What measures are being taken to investigate the cause and prevent future incidents?
The fire at De Varens Castle raises important questions about heritage preservation and emergency preparedness. While the immediate priority was safety, the long-term consequences for this protected site are concerning.
- The castle’s roof and much of the structure suffered heavy damage.
- No victims or hazardous substances were involved, easing health risks.
- Local authorities and police are investigating the fire’s cause.
- The incident disrupted nearby traffic due to smoke spreading toward major roads.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains crucial to support restoration efforts and safeguard other historic sites. Will this tragedy lead to stronger measures to protect Belgium’s treasured monuments? The community and authorities must work together to ensure such losses are minimized in the future.
